A review by theblacklodgebookshelf
Babel: An Arcane History by R.F. Kuang

challenging emotional sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 

5 Stars 

2024 is my year of finally reading the books I’ve been too intimidated to read. Babel was probably at the top of this list and I am so happy that I read it. 

I mostly listened to the audiobook with a little bit of physical reading when I could. Chris Lew Kum Hoi was the perfect narrator; every character had a distinct voice, the range of accents he was able to portray was incredibly impressive. His performance was very moving at times. 

It feels very weird to say that I enjoyed the book, because the content and the plot centres around very distressing themes. But it was so hard to stop listening. I was so invested in these characters and their well-being. 

On the surface it is a dark academia book and I loved the exploration of etymology and how language itself was used as the magic system, alongside silverwork. But Babel is so much more than this. It’s devastating, hopeful, enraging and intelligent. Prepare to be uncomfortable and do read content warnings before starting.